About three weeks ago, my RKE (remote keyless entry) receiver module started acting up on my 1998 LeSabre:

http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...ic.php?t=83687

I believe I need a replacement module; however, I have some questions:

If I buy a brand new module (say, from GM Parts Direct), will I have to have a dealer program it somehow, or is the "jumper-in-the-OBD-port trick" for programming the fobs all I need after installation of the module?

What if I buy a functioning, used module--would I need to have a dealer reprogram that? Or will it already be "programmed to work," and I'll just have to program my existing fobs to it?

(If it makes any difference, my ignition key has one of those little chip'* / magnetic doohickey'* in it.)

i believe it was only the 00+ that need the Tech 2 to Program the RKE

According to the GM servicing information, a Tech II will be needed to program a new one. A used one may work, except I'd wonder about this step of the programming.
I don't know if you'd have to find one from another '98 Buick LeSabre, or not.

I believe for a new one, it has to be programmed at the dealer or with a Tech II. For used, you need to find one that has is the car, same year, AND has the same accesories/options as the one your replacing, and then you may not need to program.

Well, it occurs to me that I can test the idea that the module has to be from the same model/option car by swapping in the unit from my Mother-in-Law'* minimally-optioned '98 Olds 88 for testing.

I found a used unit on EBAY (same p/n as mine) with two key fobs that claims to be "preprogrammed, no trip to dealer needed...just install and you're done," that does not specify that it needs to go with any specific model, option package, or year...so if that seller is right, my MIL'* unit should plug and play in my car.

That EBAY unit'* not much cheaper than a brand new unit from GMPD, and that'* why I'm wondering if a new unit (which I'd prefer) needs a dealership trip, or whether that new unit would already be "hardcoded", and the TECH II simply mates the fobs to the unit (for an extra stealership charge, of course). From what Archon says, it seems possible that the new unit comes with blank EPROMs / no programming, and the TECH II is needed to initially hardcode it.

UPDATE:
Swapped my Mother-in-Law'* RKE receiver module (from 1998 Olds 8 into the '98 LeSabre. It worked with her key fob no problem. This at least tells me that I can buy a used unit--presumably from any compatible H-body--and expect it to work.

Hooray for me!

Bought a used unit from a '97 LeSabre off EBAY for $35 shipped.

Plugged it in, programmed my fobs to it, and BAM! Problem solved.

Great! Thanks for reporting back on your findings!

Any one know where this receiver is located on the 1998 LeSabre ?

Thanks TheReaper!